supplement

L-Citrulline

Chemical structure of L-Citrulline (PubChem CID 9750)
Structure via PubChem
Half-life
1 h
Typical timing
pre_workout
Food rule
empty stomach
Default unit
g

Studied for

Overview

L-C-Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid, meaning the body can produce it on its own. It is naturally found in some foods, most notably watermelons, and is also available as a dietary supplement. In the body, L-Citrulline plays a key role in the urea cycle, a process that removes ammonia, a toxic byproduct of protein metabolism, from the body. Beyond this metabolic function, L-Citrulline is a precursor to L-Arginine, another amino acid. L-Arginine is then converted into nitric oxide (NO), a potent vasodilator that helps relax and widen blood vessels. This vasodilation effect is central to many of the proposed benefits of L-Citrulline supplementation, particularly in relation to cardiovascular health and athletic performance. It is commonly marketed as a supplement to support endurance exercise and reduce muscle fatigue. (National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, PubChem)

Deep dive

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Known interactions

  • Category rule: glp1 × supplement
    Note

    GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, changing how/when oral supplements absorb; rapid weight loss raises the importance of protein and micronutrients.

    Time oral supplements when nausea is lowest; prioritize protein and micronutrients; discuss with your provider.

  • Category rule: supplement × medication
    Note

    Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).

    Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist.

Frequently asked

Sources referenced

["National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements", "MedlinePlus", "PubChem", "Mayo Clinic", "Cochrane", "DrugBank"]

Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.

Related compounds

Others in the supplement category or studied for the same goals.

Related benefits

Other compounds studied for the same benefits as L-Citrulline.

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